How does this author manage to combine so many of my favorite romance aspects into one amazing book all of the time? I swear if another author tried to write a book that was part rom com but also had lots of angst and pining it wouldn’t work. She is just SO good at blending so many different elements together and she ends up with these epic stories of love. I adored both Chris and Hallie right from the jump and could not wait for them to get together. It was a bit of a wait, this was a slow burn (that’s where the angst comes in) but it was the delicious kind of torture that only certain authors can pull off. I was lining myself There was a ton of character development and growth as well, you see both of them come so far by the end, both separately and together and I always appreciate that deep type of growth. Overall an outstanding romance that I truly adored, if you’re already a fan of the author you’ll be pleased and if you’ve never read her before you should!

This is the third book I’ve read by the author and I really like her brand of writing. She always seems to come up with storylines that at first glance seem like something you’ve read before, but then when you dive in you realize she puts her own unique spin on it. A partner with secrets is nothing new but there was still something fresh here. The author managed to really capture the feeling of being a new parent, especially the low moments that aren’t often discussed. This aspect alongside a plot full of tension and secrets worked pretty well for me. I did think there was a repetitive feel at times but I almost wonder if that was done intentionally as much of it revolves around Janie taking care of her newborn. Other than that it was solid, some mild surprises along the way and it was the kind of compulsive read I’ve come to expect from the author.

I really enjoy the authors brand of writing, she always creates fascinating characters that are wholly unlikable but this is done intentionally. You know that that you’re supposed to be annoyed by these people and they’re supposed to get under your skin and Jody was no exception. There is something deliciously fun about reading about a devious character and I definitely enjoyed that aspect. Unfortunately that’s about all I enjoyed here, so thank god for unapologetically awful characters like Jody haha. I knew this centered on politics but it was just too much for me and I felt bogged down by all the political talk. The drama felt convoluted and unnecessarily messy just for the sake of it and I didn’t fully believe many aspects of the characters actions and behaviors. Overall a bit of a miss for me but if you like sociopathic characters and politically charged plots this may work for you. 

This is the second holiday book I’ve read in the last few weeks that had magical realism and I have to say, I’m into it. The holiday season is already magical on it’s own so add in a little real magic that’s grounded in reality and I’m One thing the authors books always have is amazing descriptions of food and this was no exception. The treats Jack makes at the Julemarked sounded delicious and I needed many snacks while reading this. There was something so pure about this one, maybe it’s because Jack himself was such a pure and innocent character but this was sugar sweet. If you’re looking for an adorable and whimsical holiday read this was an enchanting delight sure to give you all the Christmassy feels.